In newly-renovated space, Mia Margherita at Charles Pointe kicks off the Mia Jazz Series Thursday. The debut event will feature “The Time Flies,” a jazz fusion quartet led by renowned jazz pianist, Dr. Monika Herzig.

 

“Monika was here in April with the all-girl band, but also has this jazz fusion band with her husband,” said West Virginia Jazz Society President Eric Spelsberg, referring to the recent Jazz at Charles Pointe event featuring Herzig’s ‘Whole World in Her Hands’ sextet.

 

Herzig plays keyboard with her husband Peter Keinle contributing guitar talents. The band is rounded out with Aron Caceres on bass and Josh Roberts on drums.

 

“They will be performing in Elkins and we talked them into stopping here to rehearse on their way,”Spelsberg said. “Their performance should be first class.”

 

The shows of the series will be held in Mia Margherita’s new private dining room – the expanded former location of Mia Market, said Owner Scott Duarte.

 

“We have expanded Mia Margherita by 1200 square feet to accommodate an additional dining room that can be used not only for dining, but also for private parties and entertainment,” he said.

 

The new room has seating for up to 50 guests, providing them with an atmosphere very similar to the restaurant’s main dining room – incorporating much of the urban rustic décor and Mia Margherita color scheme.

 

The Mia Jazz Series continues monthly through December, each performance showcasing a different jazz artist.

 

“I think each performance will be unique and entertaining in its own way and hope many will come out and get an opportunity to share in the music,” Duarte said. “With jazz being such a diverse genre, it appeals to a large number of people who are open and appreciate all of its different styles and flavors. We look forward to every event and continue to be amazed by the musicianship and dedication the artists deliver.”

 

As Mia Margherita works hard to bring quality food, beverage and service to our region, the West Virginia Jazz Society works hard to try to identify opportunities and venues to host the talented musicians attracted to our region, Duarte said.

 

“Our relationship with the West Virginia Jazz Society allows us to collaborate on what we hope will be a hospitality experience of the caliber our guests will enjoy and want to come back to experience over and over,” he said.

 

A native of Switzerland and now based out of New York City, Herzig has already developed a local fan base. In fact, her April performance at Bridgeport Conference Center was a sell-out

 

“It was indeed a stellar performance,” Duarte said.

 

Locally, there seems to be a growing fan base for live jazz.

“The Jazz Society is rapidly approaching a decade in existence. From our early start with Jazz at Charles Pointe to now, I certainly feel those who appreciate jazz have been able to connect more often with jazz music in our region as a result of the WV Jazz Society’s efforts,” Duarte said. “And by the numbers, I feel that we have made many new friends along the way.”

 

Mia Margherita is currently taking reservations for the Aug. 3 show featuring “The Time Flies.” Seating begins at 6:30 p.m. with music from 7-10 p.m. There is no cover charge.

 

The restaurant’s full dinner and cocktail menu will be available for purchase throughout the evening and the series. To make reservations, call 304-808-6400.

 

As for future shows, the West Virginia Jazz Society is working with Mia Margherita to book acts featuring both blues and jazz. 

“Much like before, the market will serve as our venue for restaurant take-out, pick up, pastries, pizza by the slice, coffee and espresso, freshly made sandwiches and salads along with specialty Italian and local food and retail items,” Duarte said. “We have also gained some much needed kitchen and storage space for the market and restaurant with this move.”

 

Editor's Note; Pictured top is Monika Herzig. Also pictured are Anna Faix and Bethany Geiger of Mia Margherita's, making plans for the upcoming monthly performances of jazz artists.